Get ready to transform your kitchen into a gourmet bakery with this absolutely irresistible Lemon Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Braid! Imagine a golden, flaky pastry braided to perfection, hiding a creamy, tangy lemon filling that will make your mouth water from the first glance. This show-stopping dessert is not just a treat – it's a culinary masterpiece that looks like it came straight from a professional pastry chef's kitchen, but can be easily created in your own home with just a few simple ingredients.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet. If the pastry is folded, gently press the seams to flatten.
- Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts along both sides of the pastry, leaving the center third uncut. These cuts should be about 1 inch apart and angled towards the center.
- Spread the lemon cream cheese mixture evenly down the center third of the pastry, leaving a small border at the top and bottom.
- Fold the strips of pastry over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided appearance, crossing the strips over the center filling.
- Brush the entire pastry braid with beaten egg, ensuring complete coverage for a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving. Slice into 8 servings and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature to create a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Use a sharp knife when making the diagonal cuts to get clean, precise lines for braiding.
- For the most beautiful golden finish, use a pastry brush to evenly distribute the egg wash.
- Make sure your puff pastry is cold but pliable – if it's too warm, it won't hold its shape while braiding.
- Don't skip the cooling time – this helps the pastry set and makes it easier to slice.
- For an extra touch of elegance, serve on a beautiful platter and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
- This pastry is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Pro Tip: Want to take it to the next level? Try adding a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a drizzle of lemon glaze on top for an extra burst of citrusy goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
